Only three-and-a-half hours from Melbourne, though like a world away, this summer, escape to the regions, get back to nature and explore what’s on offer in the Heart of the Murray. From the vibrant Lake Boga and serene Nyah Forest, to the historical and cultural experiences on offer in between, Swan Hill invites you to linger a little longer as you relax in nature and reconnect to the past.
Well loved amongst locals and visitors alike, Lake Boga is a little oasis just outside Swan Hill and an absolute stellar offering of water sports and outdoor activities. And with the addition of some historical, cultural and art experiences, it’s clear why Lake Boga is such a cherished destination.
The calm waters and shady banks of this 3km-wide lake combine to offer the perfect opportunity for swimming and water sport adventures, including stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and of course water skiing.
In an exciting addition to the already vibrant area, Catalina Grill House will open on the foreshore in mid-December and means visitors can caffeinate and refuel before biking or walking the flat gravel track stretching around the lake, or easily source provisions for a picnic on the shady banks.
A beautiful and intricate mosaic artwork meets you as you round the south end corner of the lake, The Lake Boga Story Wall. The artwork speaks to the diverse history of the region and makes for a colourful companion to the newest addition to the famous Silo Art Trail recently unveiled at Lake Boga. The large scale artwork painted by renowned silo artist, Tim Bowtell, reveals more of the town’s history and perfectly captures the classic Australian sunset palette of burnt orange and impossible purples and pinks that will likely be on show in real life, later in the evening.
And right at the epicentre of this vibrant part of the lake, is one of the area’s major attractions, the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum. Home to restored World War 2 patrol bomber, the Catalina Flying Boat, an original secret communication bunker, and countless other wartime artefacts, the museum showcases Lake Boga’s historic connections to WWII.
The Pioneer Settlement is a must-see and offers a genuinely jam-packed opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of the region and explore the well-preserved interactive display of life in colonial Australia.
Included in your ticket price is a horse-led carriage ride which clip-clops visitors around the settlement village, offering a chance to scope out exactly where the old fashioned lolly shop and bakery are. On weekends, the blacksmiths and woodturners demonstrate these pioneering trades. The 3 in 1 multipass is your best bet and means you won’t miss a relaxing cruise down the mighty Murray on the PS Pyap, or the incredible laser light show in the evening that uses the river as the canvas to bring alive the region’s storied past.
Fishing, Nyah recreation & nature
And as cost of living gripes become more of a reality, so too does the search for great experiences that won’t break the bank, and Swan Hill and surrounds offers these in spades.
There are lots of free or almost free camping spots to pitch a tent or pull up the caravan. Nyah Recreation Reserve, just 20 minutes from Swan Hill and the low-cost sites on the banks of Lake Boga, offer visitors unspoilt river frontage views and the peace, quiet and adventure of our beautiful great outdoors. There are also two BIG4 parks, one with a fabulous, family-friendly splash park, another independent park just outside the town, and another on Pental Island.
And if you have already stopped in town you would have met the iconic Arnold, a 15 metre long Murray Cod, and perhaps been inspired to try your luck at luring the river’s biggest catch, or keep on solid ground where you can wander the path along the riverfront, spotting the animal sculptures and wildlife hidden amongst the trees.
Whether you're planning a relaxing weekend, or an extended getaway, Swan Hill is the ultimate haven for families and retired adventurers.
Enjoy an unforgettable summer vacation that offers a relaxing blend of nature, culture and history, right in the heart of the Murray.
